Arteta set to lose trusted deputy to Parma | OneFootball

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is preparing to bid farewell to a key member of his backroom team, with 29-year-old assistant Carlos Cuesta expected to take up his first senior managerial role at Parma.

Widely regarded as one of the most promising young coaches in the game, Cuesta travelled to Italy on Wednesday to finalise terms. He is set to replace Cristian Chivu - who departed for Inter Milan following Simone Inzaghi’s exit - and would become the second-youngest manager in Serie A history.

The Spaniard arrived at Arsenal from Juventus in 2020, having launched his coaching career at Atlético Madrid at just 18 years old. Since then, he has developed into one of Arteta’s most trusted aides, known particularly for his emphasis on improving players’ tactical intelligence on an individual level.

Cuesta was strongly linked with Norwich City last season, but it is understood he has been drawn to the opportunity of becoming the youngest head coach in one of Europe’s top five leagues - and to the challenge of revitalising a Parma side that ended last season in 16th place after securing promotion in 2023/24.

Although Cuesta was among five members of Arteta’s coaching team to sign new deals through to 2027 in April, alongside assistant Albert Stuivenberg and first-team coach Miguel Molina, Arteta has previously made clear he would not prevent staff from pursuing new opportunities.